HEALTH OFFICIALS IN HAMILTON, MADISON COUNTY ADVISE OF POSSIBLE WASTEWATER CONTAMINATION IN THE WITHLACOOCHEE RIVER Possible Impacts from Valdosta, GA Wastewater Overflow

Contact: DOH-HamiltonMark LanderMark.Lander@flhealth.gov386-792-1414

DOH-MadisonKim AllbrittonKimberly.Allbritton@flhealth.gov850-973-5000

Madison, Fla. – The Florida Department of Health in Hamilton and Madison counties today issued a joint health advisory to residents and visitors near the Withlacoochee River in north Florida. The city of Valdosta, Georgia has reported a large spill of untreated sewage; the spillage will impact water quality at Mud Creek and the Withlacoochee River.

Until further information is known regarding possible contamination of the river, people in the area are urged to take precautions when in contact with the Withlacoochee River. The Florida Department of Environmental Protection is conducting water sampling today.

Water contaminated with wastewater overflow presents several health risks to humans. Untreated human sewage with microbes could cause gastrointestinal issues and other conditions.

Anyone who comes into contact with the river water should wash thoroughly, especially hands and before eating or drinking. Children and older adults, as well as people with weakened immune systems, are particularly vulnerable to disease so every precaution should be taken if in contact with the river water.

For more information about the potential health effects of wastewater overflow, Floridians are encouraged to contact DOH-Hamilton at 386-758-1059 or www.hamilton.floridahealth.gov and DOH-Madison at 850-973-5000 or visit www.madison.floridahealth.gov.

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